Ask Retired Deputy Joe: When a loved one dies at home

Thursday

The question I have is, what is the proper procedure to follow when a person dies of natural causes in the home? I have asked these questions of many sources but have received conflicting answers.

I know it's a pretty morbid subject but I thought that you would be the person who would have the straight scoop on the matter. My wife is 91 and I am 92, so this information might come in very handy one day.

1. I presume the first call would be to 911. Is that right?

2. In this case would the police or sheriff's department respond?

3. Who authorizes moving the body to funeral home or crematory?

4. Who issues the initial death certificate?

Any help you can give me would be most appreciated.

Once again, thanks for all the help you have provided in the past.

Answer:

1. Yes dial 911. Tell the 911 operator what you suspect. Also, ask for emergency medical technicians to respond. The police will normally respond first. They are trained as first responders and will make a report on their findings. The medical personnel can monitor and be able to determine death of the person.

2. The medical examiner or if you are under doctor's care he or she can issue the death certificate.

a) Important, have a list of all doctors you and your wife are going to - with the reason and last appointment date available with easy access.

b) Have all medical prescriptions in their proper container with reason for taking that specific medication, and over-the-counter medication that you are taking at the present time available and together.

c) A living will and your updated and current will.

d) A very good idea to have a prearranged funeral - with all the information about who will take care of the remains and final arrangements.

e) This information should be together with easy access for both of you.

Other suggestion: All information about finance and current condition should be shared and discussed on a regular basis by both parties. This makes it easier when the time comes for the survivor.

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"Ask retired Deputy Joe" is available to anyone interested in asking him questions, but is particularly geared to questions from senior citizens. Deputy Joe is retired from the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office. His career spanned 45 years in law enforcement. To ask him a question, email joe12@att.net.

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